The Board for Global EHS Credentialing® (BGC®) recognizes the unique capabilities of CIHs, QEPs and EPIs to help prevent and mitigate unforeseen events.

Preparedness is essential because when a natural or manmade disaster occurs, the resources of public agencies are often quickly overwhelmed.

National Preparedness Month (NPM) has been observed each September in the United States since 2004. It is organized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) which teams up with Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Ready Campaign and other partners. The month of recognition is designed to raise awareness and promote action surrounding emergency preparedness among citizens, businesses, institutions, and communities.

The theme for the 2019 NPM is Prepared, Not Scared. Be Ready for Disasters. These disasters may include everything from hurricanes, wildfires, tornados, earthquakes, and floods to hazardous materials incidents and biological or radiological threats. Preparedness is essential because when a natural or manmade disaster occurs, the resources of public agencies are often quickly overwhelmed.

“Emergency preparedness requires attention to not just specific types of hazards, but also to all the steps that increase preparedness,” said Dirk Yamamoto, PhD, CIH® and Chair of the Board for Global EHS Credentialing®. “This is one of the many reasons why it is so critical for organizations and businesses to have a plan and people in place who are trained to handle and respond to such situations. The industrial hygiene community and Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH®), in particular, are well-versed in identifying, preventing, and responding to many of these situations. This is due to their unique skill set and ability to anticipate, recognize, evaluate, and control a wide range of chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic stressors. The expertise of Qualified Environmental Professionals (QEP®) and Environmental Professionals In-Training (EPI®), with their broad understanding of environmental issues, can also be instrumental when preparing for, or responding to, many types of emergencies and disasters.”

About the Board for Global EHS Credentialing® (BGC®) and Its Credentials and Designations
Founded in 1960, the Board for Global EHS Credentialing’s mission is to be the leader in offering credentials that elevate the technical and ethical standards for professionals practicing the science of protecting, managing, and enhancing the health and safety of people and the environment. The American Board of Industrial Hygiene® (ABIH®) and the Institute of Professional Environmental Practice® (IPEP®) are credentialing divisions of the BGC, offering the Certified Industrial Hygienist® (CIH®) credential, Qualified Environmental Professional® (QEP®) credential, and the Environmental Professional In-Training® (EPI®) designation.